Lieutenant Governor Frank Lewis, left, watches as O'Leary-Inverness MLA Robert Henderson signs the oath of office during ceremonies in Fanningbank in Charlottetown Tuesday. Henderson will be minister of tourism and culture.

Rob Moore, minister of State (Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency), and Robert Henderson, Minister of Tourism and Culture, recently announced federal and provincial support for the 2014 event.

The Atlantic Canadian music celebration, which will take place in Charlottetown from April 2 to 6, has become internationally recognized over its 26-year history.

“Our region has always embraced and celebrated our music and its close connection with our culture. East Coast Music Week provides a great platform to showcase our talents nationally and internationally,” said Moore.

“East Coast Music Week not only showcases the tremendous talent that calls this region home, but it also showcases the region itself and brings thousands of musicians, industry representatives and fans to our province. So from tourism, cultural and economic perspectives, it is a fantastic event that we are proud to support,” added Henderson.

The Government of Canada, through the International Business Development Agreement, will contribute $100,000 to support the ECMAs with the International Export Buyers Program. This opportunity has become one of the leading forums for international business development in the Atlantic Canadian music industry.

Through ACOA’s Business Development Program, the Government of Canada will also contribute $100,000 to the ECMA to support marketing efforts to promote this premier event.

The Government of P.E.I. will contribute $250,000 through P.E.I. 2014 Inc. and $66,000 from the Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning.

“The East Coast Music Week event is one that is well-suited for the City of Charlottetown. Our location generously accommodates one large block party to celebrate East Coast music in fine style, and we are ready to proudly display our hospitality, once again,” stated Clifford Lee, mayor of Charlottetown. “We are thrilled to support the event through a monetary partnership of $75,000, provided through the City of Charlottetown and the Tourism Accommodation Levy.”

Andria Wilson, ECMA executive director, said, “The support of ACOA enables the East Coast Music Association to continue to offer high level business to business development activities to our members and the Atlantic Canadian music industry. With the business component of our industry integral to the development and success of our artists, we curate a conference that provides a current and diverse platform for learning and industry navigation.

“Now in its 13th year, the conference and Export Buyers Program provides an environment for artists and industry professionals to showcase, learn and network with international booking agents, presenters, festival representatives, promoters, film and music placement supervisors, digital experts, and media.”

Lieutenant Governor Frank Lewis, left, watches as O'Leary-Inverness MLA Robert Henderson signs the oath of office during ceremonies in Fanningbank in Charlottetown Tuesday. Henderson will be minister of tourism and culture.